Robotics Competition Grant

The Robotics Competition Grant is administered by the Michigan Department of Education through its Office of Systems, Evaluation, and Technology. The program is established under Section 99h of the State School Aid Act and is designed to expand access to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education opportunities for students across Michigan. By supporting participation in structured robotics competitions, the grant aligns with the state strategic education plan to improve student proficiency in STEM subjects and increase readiness for college and careers. The initiative reflects a broader policy priority to engage students in hands on, experiential learning environments that promote technical skills, teamwork, and problem solving. The purpose of the grant is to provide financial support to eligible school entities so that students can actively participate in robotics competitions offered by approved program providers. These competitions must occur within the current robotics season and be open to participation from multiple schools or districts. The program is structured to ensure that students gain exposure to collaborative and competitive STEM environments. Funding is intended to reduce barriers to entry for robotics programs and to support schools in maintaining or expanding their participation in these activities. Funding for the program is allocated across different applicant categories, with a total of five million dollars designated for public entities including intermediate school districts, local education agencies, and public school academies, and six hundred thousand dollars designated for registered nonpublic schools. Awarded funds are restricted to specific allowable uses, including coaching stipends, event registration fees, materials, travel expenses, and other costs directly related to preparation for and participation in robotics competitions. Additionally, teams that advance to higher levels of competition may receive advancement awards depending on available funding. Funds must be used strictly for approved team activities and may not be redistributed or used for unrelated expenses. Eligibility for the program includes intermediate school districts, traditional public school districts, public school academies, and registered nonpublic schools within the state of Michigan. Applicants must meet several requirements, including registering for an approved robotics competition, establishing a partnership with at least one external sponsor, and providing a minimum twenty five percent match of the total grant award using local or private funds. Applicants are also required to maintain a qualified robotics coach, provide team identification numbers, and submit participant data as requested by the department. Nonpublic schools must also meet state registration and reporting requirements. The application process requires submission through the NexSys system and includes the development of a cumulative spending plan, confirmation of partnerships, and documentation of compliance with program requirements. Applications for the fiscal year 2026 cycle opened on December 10, 2025, and closed on February 9, 2026 at noon. Late submissions were not accepted. Following submission, applications are reviewed by the department, and approved applicants receive grant award notifications in the spring. Funds are distributed through state aid payments or vendor systems depending on the applicant type. Evaluation of applications is based on compliance with eligibility criteria and the completeness and accuracy of submitted information. Applicants are required to certify that all information provided is accurate, and any falsification may result in withdrawal of funding. The program also requires ongoing reporting and coordination with approved program providers, including sharing student participation data and adhering to competition requirements. These measures ensure accountability and alignment with program objectives. The grant operates on a recurring annual cycle tied to the state fiscal year, which runs from October through September. While the fiscal year 2026 application cycle has concluded, similar timelines are expected in future years, with application openings typically occurring in December and deadlines in early February. Applicants should monitor official communications from the Michigan Department of Education for updates, future funding opportunities, and any changes to program requirements or timelines. For additional information or assistance, applicants may contact the program office via the designated email address.

Ensure accurate data submission and complete all required components including partnerships and spending plans